Shafi Md Mostofa

New South Wales

Journalist at Freelance

Contributor at European Eye on Radicalization

Associate Professor of Dhaka University

Articles

Rebranding Jamaat: The Rise of the ‘Islamist Left’ in Bangladesh

1 week ago | thediplomat.com | Shafi Md Mostofa

The term “Islamist left” may seem paradoxical to some, given the traditionally conservative orientation of Islamist parties. Yet, in the aftermath of Bangladesh’s 2024 July Revolution, this seemingly contradictory movement is gaining traction, led by Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh (JI). JI, the oldest Islamist party in Bangladesh, has historically struggled to gain significant electoral support, often polling at less than 10 percent despite Bangladesh’s Muslim majority.
Opinion – Muslims as Sufferers in the Liberal World Order - Shafi Md Mostofa

3 weeks ago | qoshe.com | Shafi Md Mostofa
From Revolution to Reform: The BNP’s Uphill Battle in a New Bangladesh

1 month ago | thediplomat.com | Shafi Md Mostofa

Bangladesh’s political landscape has undergone seismic shifts over the past decade, marked by the rise of authoritarianism under Sheikh Hasina and the eventual ousting of her regime through a student-led revolution. Throughout this period, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has remained a significant political force, often regarded as the only party capable of defeating Hasina’s Awami League in free and fair elections.
The Rise of the National Citizen Party: A New Dawn in Bangladeshi Politics?

2 months ago | thediplomat.com | Shafi Md Mostofa

On February 28, a new political force emerged in Bangladesh, signaling a potential shift in the country’s political landscape. The National Citizen Party (NCP), formed by the students who led the July 2024 uprising, represents a bold attempt to redefine Bangladeshi politics with its vision of a “Second Republic” and a discrimination-free Bangladesh. The NCP’s origins are deeply rooted in the July 2024 uprising, a watershed moment in Bangladesh’s history.
Breaking the Promise? State Violence and Dehumanization in Post-Revolution Bangladesh - Tribune Content Agency

2 months ago | tribunecontentagency.com | Shafi Md Mostofa

On February 9, the interim government of Bangladesh introduced Operation Devil Hunt, driven by the Bangladesh joint forces to maintain law and order. The government presented this operation as necessary to address criminal activities and mob violence. The operation will continue until all the “devils are rooted out,” said Home Adviser Lt. Gen. (retd) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury. When asked about the objective of the operation, Jahangir said, “What does ‘devil’ mean? It refers to evil forces.
Breaking the Promise? State Violence and Dehumanization in Post-Revolution Bangladesh

2 months ago | thediplomat.com | Shafi Md Mostofa

On February 9, the interim government of Bangladesh introduced Operation Devil Hunt, driven by the Bangladesh joint forces to maintain law and order. The government presented this operation as necessary to address criminal activities and mob violence. The operation will continue until all the “devils are rooted out,” said Home Adviser Lt. Gen. (retd) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury. When asked about the objective of the operation, Jahangir said, “What does ‘devil’ mean? It refers to evil forces.
Terrorism in Bangladesh: Political Manipulation, Ideological Roots, and Western Influence

Feb 14, 2025 | thediplomat.com | Shafi Md Mostofa

Terrorism in Bangladesh is a multifaceted phenomenon, intricately linked to local and global politics. Over the years, it has evolved into a tool manipulated for political advantage, an ideological battleground, and a product of external narratives imposed on the country. Based on my rare opportunity to interview 32 individuals who had been accused of terrorism under Bangladesh’s anti-terrorism law, a complex picture of victimization, ideological radicalization, and political opportunism emerges.
The Bangladesh Awami League: From Dominance to a Legitimacy Crisis

Feb 7, 2025 | thediplomat.com | Shafi Md Mostofa

On January 28, the Awami League (AL) declared a , including strikes and blockades, in an attempt to rebuild its support in Bangladesh. In the aftermath of the July 2024 mass killing and Sheikh Hasina’s departure from the country on August 5, the AL is facing an unprecedented crisis of political legitimacy. The student-led revolution captivated the nation, forced longtime AL leader Hasina from office, and led to the formation of a transitional government under Muhammad Yunus.
Revolution and Rivalry: Can Bangladesh Escape Its Illiberal Past? - Tribune Content Agency

Jan 8, 2025 | tribunecontentagency.com | Shafi Md Mostofa

On December 22, 2024, a violent clash between Jamaat-e-Islami and the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) in Gaibandha district left at least 10 people injured. In the wake of Sheikh Hasina’s resignation and the disarray of the Awami League, Bangladesh finds itself at a historic crossroads. The departure of one of the country’s most authoritarian leaders presents a rare opportunity to rebuild its political system and embark on the path of liberal democracy.
Revolution and Rivalry: Can Bangladesh Escape Its Illiberal Past?

Jan 8, 2025 | thediplomat.com | Shafi Md Mostofa

On December 22, 2024, a violent clash between Jamaat-e-Islami and the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) in Gaibandha district left at least 10 people injured. In the wake of Sheikh Hasina’s resignation and the disarray of the Awami League, Bangladesh finds itself at a historic crossroads. The departure of one of the country’s most authoritarian leaders presents a rare opportunity to rebuild its political system and embark on the path of liberal democracy.